Fun run in aid of hospice

Photo: Laura Wild

Springhill Hospice Father Christmas Fun Run

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Over one hundred people took part in the Springhill Hospice Father Christmas Fun Run at Hollingworth Lake Littleborough this morning (Sunday 6 December).

People of all ages dressed in Santa Claus outfits to raise money for the hospice in this annual fun run, some decided to walk, others to run and one member of staff from the hospice decided to cycle.

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Keith Swift, set the Santa’s off at 11.00am, he said: "It is easy to see from the support here today why Springhill hospice is called the people's hospice. It is great to see this annual event so successful once again.”

This year is the fourth annual fun run, the idea came from hospice supporter Pearl Benbow, who took part in a similar event in Liverpool in 2005 and then brought the idea to the hospice fundraising team, she said: “I am really pleased to see how many people have turned up today, anybody can take part as long as they wear a Santa costume.”

Springhill Hospice fundraising Manager Ian Jenkins was delighted with the turnout, he said: “We are delighted that so many people have taken part; it is always a colourful event and this year is no exception.”

One person taking part in the fun run had travelled from Warrington, 12 year old Joanna Pidgeon said: “I thought it would be really fun to take part; I am taking my Grandma’s dog with me too.”

All the proceeds will go to Springhill Hospice.